Dareu Snow vs. HMX SU
An in-depth look at the Dareu Snow and the HMX SU switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to selecting the ideal mechanical keyboard switch, the Dareu Snow and HMX SU both offer unique experiences tailored to different typing preferences, despite both being linear switches. The Dareu Snow, recognized for its innovative POK material used in both the top housing and stem, delivers a notably deeper sound signature, characterized by a thocky, neutral feel that many users find satisfying. This switch is designed for those who appreciate a smooth, bouncy typing experience that provides a touch of acoustic richness. On the other hand, the HMX SU, utilizing a full PA12 housing coupled with a T5 stem, presents a subtle yet relatively deep sound profile, making it an excellent choice for individuals who prefer a more understated auditory feedback. Both switches cater to enthusiasts looking for linear options, but their distinct sound signatures and tactile nuances offer different appeals. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the ideal switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
50g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
60g
Bottom-out force
50g
Pre-travel
1.30 mm
Pre-travel
1.80 mm
Total travel
3.30 mm
Total travel
3.60 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
T5
Top housing material
POK
Top housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
22mm single-stage spring
Housing materials
The Dareu Snow and HMX SU switches utilize distinct top housing materials that significantly influence their performance and sound characteristics. The Snow features a POK top housing, known for its impressive durability and smoothness, thanks to its low coefficient of friction and high wear resistance compared to traditional materials like POM and Nylon. This high-performance plastic contributes to a distinctively clacky feel and sound when typing, creating a tactile experience favored by many enthusiasts. In contrast, the HMX SU’s top housing is made from Nylon, a classic choice in switch design that provides a deeper, fuller sound profile due to its softer composition. While Nylon absorbs sound better, contributing to a more muted auditory experience, the POK material of the Snow offers a much sharper and more pronounced acoustic response, showcasing how the choice of materials affects overall typing feel and sound.
On the bottom housing front, both the Snow and SU switches opt for Nylon, leading to some similarities between the two models. The use of Nylon in the bottom housing for both switches reinforces the tendency for a deeper and duller sound profile, as this material inherently possesses properties that dampen acoustic feedback. This consistency in material for the bottom housing means that users can expect a similar fundamental sound quality and tactile feedback when bottoming out the keys across both models. However, it's essential to recognize that although the bottom housings share the same material, their combined effects with the distinct top housings result in different overall sound profiles and user experiences, as each switch interacts uniquely depending on the materials above them.
When considering both models in their entirety, the interaction between materials plays a crucial role in shaping their distinct auditory and tactile feedback. While the Snow's POK top housing specializes in delivering pronounced sounds and a smooth typing experience, the SU's Nylon top leads to a fuller sound that some users might prefer. The bottom housing remains consistent between both switches, allowing for a shared foundation of softness and sound absorption, which means both switches will yield a similar feel at the bottom-out moment. However, the variations in top housing materials ultimately differentiate how each switch performs overall, indicating that while similar results can be achieved at the bottom level, the top housing choices lead to differing experiences that cater to various typing preferences.
Weight
The Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch exhibit notable differences in both actuation force and bottom out force, appealing to diverse preferences among typists and gamers. The Snow switch requires an actuation force of 50 grams and has a bottom out force of 60 grams, making it a medium-weight option. In contrast, the HMX SU switch features a lighter actuation force of 45 grams and a bottom out force of 50 grams, positioning it as a lighter choice overall. This variance in force means that users who favor a more substantial typing experience might lean towards the Snow switch due to its higher resistance, while those who prefer lighter switches for extended usage would likely opt for the HMX SU. Overall, the lighter feel of the SU could facilitate longer typing sessions with less fatigue, whereas the heavier Snow switch provides a more pronounced tactile feedback for users seeking that specific experience.
Travel distance
When comparing the travel distances of the Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch, we find that the Snow switch has a travel distance of 3.3 mm, while the SU switch has a longer travel distance of 3.6 mm. This means that users of the Snow switch will experience a shorter actuation distance, which can lead to quicker response times, making it a more suitable option for gamers who prefer fast actions. In contrast, the HMX SU switch, with its longer travel distance, may appeal to those who enjoy a deeper, more substantial feel when typing, as it offers more tactile feedback. Overall, the choice between these two switches will depend on personal preferences for responsiveness versus depth; those who prioritize a quicker response should opt for the shorter Snow switch, while those who favor a more pronounced keystroke would likely prefer the longer HMX SU switch.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Dareu Snow has an MSRP of $7.78 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Snow for $5.76.
The HMX SU has an MSRP of $3.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the SU for $3.29.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
The sound profile of the Dareu Snow linear switch can be characterized as thocky, neutral, and low-pitched, producing a deep and rich sound upon actuation. This is accentuated by its unique POK material, which contributes to a more resonant sound signature that is both satisfying and pleasant to type on. Users can expect a comforting "thud" or soft "knock" with each keystroke, making it a great choice for users who appreciate auditory feedback while typing. In contrast, the HMX SU linear switch also offers a relatively deep sound profile, though the specifics of this sound are not thoroughly detailed. If you prioritize a quieter typing experience, both switches are suitable options as they maintain a balanced sound environment ideal for various settings.
In terms of feel, the Snow switch excels with its bouncy characteristic, offering a spring-like sensation that provides a lively feedback during keystrokes. This elasticity can enhance the overall typing experience as you receive an energizing rebound with each press, making it a suitable choice for users who enjoy an engaging tactile response. The HMX SU linear switch, however, has no specified feel characteristics available, leaving its tactile feedback and actuation experience largely unknown. This difference in tactile feedback intentions might influence personal preferences, especially for those fond of a responsive typing feel.
Overall, both the Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch present appealing qualities, particularly in sound where the Snow offers a defined, deep, and thocky profile, while the SU maintains a comparatively mellow tone. The Snow's bouncy feel distinguished it from the lack of specified feedback from the SU, potentially making it more favorable for those desiring an engaging typing experience. Since both switches provide a satisfying audio environment, newcomers can expect to achieve a similar auditory result, but for tactile sensation, the Snow likely has the edge.
Conclusion
To conclude, choosing between the Dareu Snow linear switch and the HMX SU linear switch ultimately boils down to your personal preferences in sound, feel, and typing style. If you appreciate a medium actuation force and crave a lively, bouncy experience when you type, the Snow switch is an excellent choice. Its deeper, thocky sound profile not only enhances your typing experience but also provides a satisfying feedback that many users find enjoyable. This switch is particularly suited for those who want a more pronounced audio experience while typing, whether for gaming or professional use. On the other hand, if you prefer a lighter touch and a more subdued sound signature, the HMX SU switch should be your pick. With its lower bottom-out force, this switch can be a great fit for long typing sessions where finger fatigue is a concern, while still providing a solid build with its full PA12 housing. In summary, if you seek a deeper sound and a bouncy feel, go for the Dareu Snow; if a lighter actuation and a more neutral sound profile are what you desire, choose the HMX SU.
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